Calibration material delivery devices and methods

ABSTRACT

These are devices and methods of delivering calibration or control information to a device, such as an analyte monitor. The devices may include a first portion configured to be grasped by the hand of the user, and a second portion including a reservoir and a flexible neck. The reservoir may contain a control material that contains a target analyte in a known or predetermined concentration.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to U.S. patent application No. 61/358,791, filed Jun. 25, 2010, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 61/265,247, filed Nov. 30, 2009.

FIELD

The inventions described herein relates to devices and methods of delivering calibration or control information to a device, such as an analyte monitor.

BACKGROUND

In this specification where a document, act or item of knowledge is referred to or discussed, this reference or discussion is not an admission that the document, act or item of knowledge or any combination thereof was at the priority date, publicly available, known to the public, part of common general knowledge, or otherwise constitutes prior art under the applicable statutory provisions; or is known to be relevant to an attempt to solve any problem with which this specification is concerned.

Currently, analyte monitoring devices, such as blood glucose monitors, include a method of executing a “control fluid” test to determine if the device is functioning according to the manufacturer's expectations. Typically, users complete a “control” test by dispensing a variable amount of fluid onto a test strip from a vial packaged with the test kit. This vial contains a fluid within a known analyte concentration. After the users dispense the fluid onto the test strip the analyte monitor assumes the fluid is a body fluid and provides a result as usual. The device and/or the user can compare the concentration of target analyte measured by the device with the known concentration contained in the control solution as a measure of the accuracy of the monitoring device.

Current systems require the user to dispense the calibration fluid from a vial containing several doses of calibration fluid. When dispensing the fluid the user must take care not to spill the fluid on the device, or on the testing surface. Completing a control test also requires that users have the dexterity to deliver a small droplet of control solution from a vial onto the test strip; this is especially difficult when diseases such as diabetes affect the patient's vision and tactile sensation.

A typical calibration or control test requires the following steps:

-   -   1. users find their control vial     -   2. ensure that the control solution is still within its         expiration limits     -   3. find a test strip     -   4. insert the test strip into the device or meter     -   5. place the device into “control test mode” (if applicable)     -   6. shake the bottle of solution     -   7. open the control vial (using two-hands)     -   8. carefully squeeze out enough control solution onto the test         strip or the finger, taking care not to damage the analyte         monitor by dispensing too much fluid     -   9. accurately deliver the control solution to the analyte         monitor     -   10. compare the result of the control test versus the stated         control range which may or may not be listed on the control vial     -   11. mark the control test in their logbook so that health care         professionals can remove this test from the users monthly         averages if so desired.

Currently many users of analyte monitors find executing a control test to be a burdensome experience that they often ignore. By ignoring the control test users often will acquire erroneous information from their monitors, and this information may then be used to adjust drug treatments. The use of inaccurate information can lead to serious consequesnces, such as hypoglycemia in diabetes patients from a dosage of insulin that is too high.

While certain aspects of conventional technologies have been discussed to facilitate disclosure of the invention, Applicants in no way disclaim these technical aspects, and it is contemplated that the claimed invention may encompass or include one or more of the conventional technical aspects discussed herein.

SUMMARY

As used herein, “body fluid” encompasses whole blood, interstitial fluid, and mixtures thereof.

As used herein “integrated device” or “integrated meter” means a device or meter that includes all components necessary to perform sampling of body fluid, transport of body fluid, quantification of an analyte, and display of the amount of analyte contained in the sample of body fluid. Exemplary integrated meters are described in: U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,540,675 and 7,004,928; U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. US 2008/0077048, US 2007/0179404, US 2007/0083131, US 2007/0179405, US 2007/0078358, and US 2007/0078313. The entire contents of each of the above-listed documents are incorporated herein by reference.

As used herein, “control material” means a material having a known and/or predetermined quantity or concentration of at least one, and possibly a plurality of, analyte(s) contained therein. The material can possess any suitable form. For example, the control material can be in the form of a liquid, a solid, a granular solid, a gas, a gel, a solution, a suspension, or any combination thereof. The analyte can comprise any suitable analyte. For example, the analyte can comprise one or more of: glucose, bilirubin, alcohol, controlled substances, toxins, hormones, and/or proteins.

It is to be understood that reference herein to first, second, third and fourth components (etc.) does not limit the present invention to embodiments where each of these components is physically separable from one another. For example, a single physical element of the invention may perform the functions of more than one of the claimed first, second, third or fourth components. Conversely, a plurality of separate physical elements working together may perform the functions of one of the claimed first, second, third or fourth components. Similarly, reference to first, second (etc.) method steps does not limit the invention to only separate steps. According to the invention, a single method step may satisfy multiple steps described herein. Conversely, a plurality of method steps could, in combination, constitute a single method step recited herein. In addition, the steps of the method are not necessarily limited to the order in which they are described or claimed herein.

It should also be understood that references herein to “the invention,” or similar language, is used to enhance readability and for convenience only, and should not be interpreted as a limitation on what is contemplated and comprehended by this disclosure and the appended claims. Instead “the invention” is intended to be interpreted as encompassing the full scope of what is claimed, regardless of the characterizations of the specific exemplary and non-limiting embodiments described in the specification.

The present invention may address one or more of the problems and deficiencies of the prior art discussed above. However, it is contemplated that the invention may prove useful in addressing other problems and deficiencies, or provides benefits and advantages, in a number of technical areas. Therefore the claimed invention should not necessarily be construed as being limited to addressing any of the particular problems or deficiencies discussed herein.

The invention can be useful with any device, but is particularly applicable to analyte monitors used in a home or clinical setting such as glucose monitors. The invention provides users of such monitors with a device that allows them to quickly and easily deliver one or more doses of calibration or control information to one or more devices, such as an analyte monitor. The invention also provides for mechanisms and methods that can automatically differentiate a calibration test from a typical test. This invention is aimed at devices requiring calibration or the ability to execute a control test. For example, in the case of analyte monitors where an analyte of a known concentration is delivered to the analyte monitor to ensure that it is functioning properly. According to the principles of the present invention, a typical user can easily and quickly execute a proper calibration test to ensure device functionality without assistance from a trained health care professional. Alternatively, the present invention can also be utilized by medical professionals in a clinical setting.

The invention can be used with an integrated device or integrated meter of the type defined above. However, the invention is not limited to use with fully integrated meters, and benefits can also be attained by use with conventional (non-integrated) meters and other diagnostic devices where collection of accurate data and analysis of data is important.

The invention can provide a device containing a single dosage, or multiple doses of control material in a convenient easy-to-use package. The control material can be contained within an applicator that is large enough for easy handling and sealed according to a number of alternative ways so that the risk of spillage or damage to the analyte monitor is greatly reduced.

This device simplifies a control test and encourages users to perform a control test more often so that any problems with their analyte monitors can be found more quickly.

The invention can provide for use of one or more dosage(s) of a predefined volume of control material, thereby ensuring more accurate data by allowing users to deliver the required amount of control solution, unlike previous methods in which it is quite possible that users could deliver too much or too little control solution. As previously mentioned, by sealing each dosage individually the viability of the control sample can be enhanced and users are less likely to use expired control material. The accuracy of the average data stored within the analyte monitor can also be increased by automatically marking or differentiating a control test from a normal or actual test so that the control test value can not impact the averages of normal analyte testing (weekly, monthly, etc) stored within the unit.

According to certain aspects, the invention provides mechanisms and methods that can determine automatically if the sampled material is body fluid or control material without the user's intervention. Also, the individual packaging of each control test ensures that each solution dosage will remain enclosed in a protective environment and allows for an extended expiration date.

According to a first aspect, the present invention provides a device comprising: a first portion configured to be grasped by the hand of the user; and a second portion defining a reservoir containing a first control material, wherein the control material comprises a target analyte of a known or predetermined concentration.

According to another aspect, the present invention provides in combination, an integrated meter comprising a housing with an opening formed therein, and the device as described above, the second portion comprising a body and a flange shaped and configured to be received by the integrated meter.

According to an additional aspect, the present invention provides a method of conveying a control material to an analyte monitor, the method comprising: (i) providing a dispenser comprising a first portion configured to be grasped by the hand of the user, and a second portion defining a reservoir having a frangible seal thereon, the reservoir containing a control material, wherein the control material contains a target analyte in a known and/or predetermined concentration; (ii) breaking the frangible seal; and (iii) conveying the control material to a location for analysis by the analyte monitor.

According to another aspect, the present invention provides a method of verifying the accuracy of the operation of an analyte monitoring device using a control material having a known and/or predetermined concentration of at least one analyte, the method comprising: providing a single or multi-test cartridge having information associated therewith defining an acceptable range of measured analyte concentration values for the control material; associating the single or multi-test cartridge with the device; reading the information off the single or multi-test cartridge; introducing a control material to the single or multi-test cartridge; the device automatically determining the presence of a control material; analyzing the control material to measure the concentration of analyte contained therein; and comparing the measured concentration with the control information to determine if the measured concentration corresponds to the acceptable range of concentration values obtained from the information.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

The following description of exemplary embodiments can be read in connection with the accompanying drawings in which like numerals designate like elements and in which:

FIG. 1 is a side view of a device formed according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken at line A-A of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of a device and a possible implementation, use or method involving the device, according to further alternative embodiments.

FIG. 5 is a side view of a device formed according to an additional alternative embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a sectional view taken at line A-A of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 5.

FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the device of FIG. 5.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a device formed according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of one of the individual devices of FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is a top view of one of the individual devices of FIG. 9.

FIG. 12 is a side view of one of the individual devices of FIG. 9.

FIG. 13 is a bottom view of one of the individual devices of FIG. 9.

FIG. 14 is a side view of a device formed according to a further embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 15 is an edge view of the device of FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 is a longitudinal sectional view of the device of FIG. 14.

FIG. 17 is an exploded view of the device of FIG. 14.

FIG. 18 is a longitudinal sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a device according to the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a side view of a further alternative embodiment of a device formed according to the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a longitudinal sectional view of the device of FIG. 19.

FIG. 21 is a longitudinal sectional view of an additional alternative embodiment of a device of the present invention in a first state.

FIG. 22 is a longitudinal sectional view of the device of FIG. 20, in a second state.

FIG. 23 is a side view of a yet another embodiment of a device formed according to the invention.

FIG. 24 is a longitudinal sectional view of the device of FIG. 23.

FIG. 25 is a sectional view of a further alternative embodiment of a device of the present invention.

FIG. 26 is an enlargement of the detail of area B in FIG. 25.

FIG. 27 is a schematic illustration of certain techniques and mechanisms for providing calibration information.

FIGS. 28A-28D illustrate a method and possible uses of a device according to further alternative embodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 29A-29D illustrate an alternative method and possible uses of a device according to additional alternative embodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 30A-30B illustrate an additional alternative method and possible uses of a device according to further alternative embodiments of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In general terms this invention describes a device that allows a user to deliver a one or more doses of control material, such as a control fluid or control solution, to one or more devices such as a meter or monitor, for example, an integrated blood glucose monitor previously described herein. The method of and apparatus for delivery of the control solution can take many forms, such as a prepackaged “blister” of control solution or a “wand,” with a known predetermined volume of control solution available for delivery to the analyte monitor. Exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of the present invention are illustrated in Figures which follow.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1-4, a device 10 constructed according to a first illustrated embodiment comprises two portions; a first portion 12 and a second portion 14. The first portion 12 serves primarily as a handle for manipulation of the device 10 by a user. Thus, the first portion 12 can be provided with any suitable form which provides the desired functionality. Therefore, it should be evident that the form of the first portion 12 is not limited to the illustrated embodiment. According to the non-limiting illustrated embodiment, the first portion 12 is in the form of an elongated cylindrical body.

The second portion 14 provides a mechanism for carrying a control or calibration material, as well as optionally mating with a meter or monitor (see, e.g. FIG. 4). Thus, the second portion 14 can have any suitable form that provides this functionality. According to the nonlimiting illustrated embodiment, the second portion 14 defines a reservoir 16. The reservoir 16 can have any suitable form, and is not limited to the form shown in the illustrated embodiment. The reservoir contains a control material. Any suitable control material can be utilized. The control material comprises a target analyte, such as glucose, in a known and/or predetermined concentration. Optionally, the control material may contain a plurality of target analytes. According to one alternative embodiment, the control material is in the form of a control liquid or solution. According to a further alternative embodiment, the control material is in the form of a liquid or solution that is carried by an absorbent or porous material, such as a sponge-like material. Thus, according to the one optional embodiment, the control material 18 is in the form of an absorbent or porous material having a control liquid, suspension or solution absorbed therein.

The reservoir 16 containing the control material 18 can be provided with a closure or seal 20. The closure or seal 20 acts to contain the control material 18 within the reservoir 16, and to prevent contamination by shielding the control material 18 from the environment. The closure or seal 20 can be provided in any suitable form, and can be constructed of any suitable material. According to one non-limiting example, the closure or seal 20 can be in the form of a thin, frangible, closure, such as a metallic foil.

As noted above, according to one optional embodiment, the second portion 14 serves to mate with an analyte monitor such that the control material 18 can be dispensed. Thus, the second portion can be provided with a shape and size that renders it suitable for mating with a meter or monitor. It should be evident that the construction of the particular device with which the second portion 14 will mate can influence both the size and shape of the second portion 14. According to the nonlimiting illustrated example, the second portion 14 comprises a flanged 22 cylindrical body 24, as perhaps best seen in FIG. 3, which is dimensioned to mate with an opening formed in an analyte monitor, as best illustrated in FIG. 4. Thus, according to one possible implementation or embodiment of the present invention, an opening is formed in an analyte monitor by a flexible footprint or interface device 26 which is mounted to the housing 28 of the meter or monitor. The body 24 of the second portion 14 of the device 10 is inserted into the opening to a desired depth, which is controlled or defined by the location of the flange 22. According to one non-limiting example, the analyte monitor includes a piercing element, or hollow needle, 30 which can be actuated such that it breaks the seal 20 and comes into fluid communication with the control material 18. The hollow piercing element 30 then transports the control material 18 into the analyte monitor, as indicated by the arrow appearing in FIG. 4, wherein the monitor includes an appropriate mechanism for analyzing the control material to measure the concentration of the target analyte(s) contained therein. Such mechanisms may include electrochemical or colorimetric analysis, as described in connection with the description of the integrated meters previously referenced herein.

A device constructed according to further alternative embodiments of the present invention is depicted in FIGS. 5-8. The device has a construction and functionality which is similar to that of the previously described embodiments. Therefore, where a feature of the alternative embodiments finds a corresponding feature with the previously described embodiments, they have been given similar reference numeral (e.g., 12 and 112). Therefore, reference is made to the previously described embodiments for a full description of these corresponding features.

As illustrated in FIGS. 5-8, the first portion 112 of the device 100 is provided with a configuration which facilitates handling by a user. This is particularly important when the device 100 is intended for use with blood glucose monitors. This is because people with diabetes can lack tactile dexterity. Thus, the first portion 112 of the device 100 can be provided with any suitable form which facilitates grasp by a user.

According to the illustrated embodiment, the first portion 112 comprises a flattened relatively wide paddle-like shape. The paddle-like shape includes facing surfaces 113 which are contoured in an hourglass type manner such that the second portion 112 is provided with a cross-section that is relatively thin toward the middle, and wider towards its ends (FIG. 6). The second portion 112 may optionally be provided with a feature that reduces slippage. For example, according to the nonlimiting illustrated embodiment, the second portion 112 is provided with a series of raised projections or ribs 115. Alternative features, such as a high friction surface coating or material disposed on all or a portion of surfaces 113 and/or ribs 115 may also be provided.

The second portion 114 of the device 100 defines a reservoir 116, which houses a control material 118, which can take any suitable form, such as that described in connection with the previous embodiments. The reservoir 116 can be sealed by a corresponding closure or seal 120. The second portion 114 further comprises a flanged 122 body 124, configured in a manner similar to that of the previously described embodiment.

In the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 5-8, the first portion 112 in the second portion 114 are formed as separate components which are assembled together and secured in any suitable fashion, such as by adhesive or a fastener. However, it should be understood that the invention is not so limited. Namely, the device 100 can have an integral or single-piece monolithic construction.

It should be evident that the device 100 has a configuration such that it can be utilized in a manner similar to that of the previous embodiment, as depicted in FIG. 4 herein.

The device of the present invention, and components thereof, can be made of any suitable material, such as, metal, wood, plastic, etc. In a preferred embodiment, the device can be made of an injection molded plastic material to simplify production and reduce costs. Similarly, in one optional embodiment, a control solution is absorbed onto a carrier layer of porous absorbent material that is placed into a reservoir in the control wand then sealed with a frangible environmental seal, such as a thin aluminum foil. It is also understood that the control material could be placed directly into the cavity in the control wand and sealed without a carrier. Instead of a wand-type delivery device of the type previously described, the control material delivery device could come in the form of a:

-   -   blister filled with control material. The foil sealed blister         could still be used to initiate the test as described herein     -   gel-cap filled with control material similar to gel-caps used to         delivery drugs such as OTC pain reducers, or     -   any other method of containing and automatically dispensing an         appropriate dosage of control material.

An example of the above-mentioned alternative control material delivery devices is illustrated in FIGS. 9-13. This illustrated therein, a plurality of such devices 150 can be coupled or packaged together. Each individual control material delivery device 152 is separable by any suitable mechanism. For instance, the plurality of devices 150 can be provided with frangible areas 154 for separating the individual devices 152 from one another. The frangible areas 154 can be provided by any suitable mechanism, such as scoring or other weakening of the material in these areas.

Each individual control material delivery device 152 can be provided in any suitable form. According to the illustrated embodiment, each device 152 can comprise a body 156. The body 156 can take any suitable form. According to the illustrated embodiment, the body 156 is in the form of a strip-like member. The body 156 can be formed from any suitable material, such as a plastic, fibrous material, or composite.

Attached to the body 156 is a reservoir 158. The reservoir can be provided with any suitable construction. For example, the reservoir can be configured to mate with an opening provided in an analyte monitor or meter, for example, in the manner previously described in connection with the description of FIG. 4. Each reservoir 158 is configured to receive a control material 160 therein. Each reservoir 158 may also be provided with a seal 162 to maintain that control material 160 within the reservoir 158. The seal 162 can take any suitable form. For example, the seal 162, according to the illustrated embodiment, comprises a pierceable member such as a thin metal foil. Thus, the seal 162 may optionally be provided with a construction which is pierceable by a member such as a hollow needle, as previously described in connection with the embodiment depicted in FIG. 4. Each device 152 may also be provided with a flange-like member 164 which is also attached to the body 156 of the device 152. The flange-like member 164 provides rigidity and support to the reservoir 158, and facilitates attachment thereof to the body 156.

The flange-like member 164 may also include a backing 166 which is not pierceable. Thus, for example, the backing 166 is not pierceable by a hollow needle. This construction of the backing 166 can be provided to protect the fingers of a user when the reservoir 158 is inserted into a meter or monitor, which includes a piercing element, such as a hollow needle, which is used to access the control material 160 within the reservoir 158.

Devices constructed according to further alternative embodiments of the present invention are depicted in FIGS. 14-30B. These devices have a construction and functionality which is similar to that of the previously described embodiments. Therefore, where a feature of the alternative embodiments finds a corresponding or feature in common with the previously described embodiments, they have been given similar reference numerals (e.g., 113 and 213). Therefore, reference is made to the previously described embodiments for supplemental description of these previously described features.

The devices and methods according to the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 14-30B have certain features in common. For instance, according to these alternative embodiments, the device 200 can possess a single piece construction, as opposed to a two-piece construction described according to other embodiment of the present invention. Each of these embodiments also may possess a reservoir constructed to retain a control material in flowable or liquid form, the provision of a porous or absorbent material as a carrier is not required, however, may be present according to further optional embodiments. These embodiments also possess a flexible neck construction which facilitates alignment and usage of the device, in particular by people with diabetes. The devices of these embodiments can also be made of any suitable material, such as, metal, wood, plastic, etc. According to one option, the device can be made of an injection molded plastic material to simplify production and reduce costs.

As illustrated, for example, in FIGS. 14-17, the first portion 212 of the device 200 is provided with a configuration which facilitates handling by a user. This is particularly important when the device 200 is intended for use with blood glucose monitors. This is because people with diabetes can lack tactile dexterity. Thus, the first portion 212 of the device 200 can be provided with any suitable form which facilitates grasp by a user.

According to the illustrated embodiment, the first portion 212 comprises a flattened relatively wide paddle-like shape. The paddle-like shape includes facing surfaces 213 which are contoured in an hourglass type manner such that the second portion 212 is provided with a cross-section that is relatively thin toward the middle, and wider towards its ends (FIGS. 15-16). The first portion 212 may optionally be provided with a feature that reduces slippage. For example, according to the nonlimiting illustrated embodiment, the first portion 212 is provided with a series of raised projections or ribs 215. Alternative features, such as a high friction surface coating or material disposed on all or a portion of surfaces 213 and/or ribs 215 may also be provided.

The device 200 may further include a second portion 214 with a flexible neck construction 230. The flexible neck 230 facilitates usage of the device by permitting relative movement between the first portion 212 and second portion 214 of the device. The flexible neck 230 can facilitate use of the device 200 in connection with mating the body 224 with an opening in a meter. The relative movement between the first portion 212 and the second portion 214 facilitates keeping the flanged 222 body 224 pressed flat against the opening, thus improving the ability to form a seal therewith. The flexible neck 230 may possess any suitable construction permits this desired relative movement. Thus, the flexible neck may simply comprise a relatively thin neck of flexible material, or other alternative configurations. According to the illustrated examples, the flexible neck 230 comprises a series of sections 231 interconnected by one or more thin flexible necks 232.

The second portion 214 of the device 200 can define a reservoir 216, which houses a control material 218, as described in connection with the previous embodiments. Optionally, the control material 218 can contain one or more target analytes having a known and/or predetermined concentration and can be in liquid or flowable form as illustrated in, for example, FIGS. 16-17. The reservoir 216 can be sealed by a corresponding closure or seal 220. The second portion 214 further comprises a flanged 222 body 224, configured in a manner similar to that of the previously described embodiment.

According to certain alternative embodiments, the device 200 can include one or more features which allow the user to urge the control material out of the device so as to deliver it to its intended location. A number of such features are contemplated, including the use of positive and/or negative pressures. According to one nonlimiting, specific example, as illustrated in FIG. 18, the first portion 212 of the device 200 can comprise a hollow interior region 260. Further, the second portion 214 of the device may also comprise a hollow region 262, which is preferably in communication with the first hollow region 260. Thus, the user is able to grasp the handle 213 and squeeze in the direction of the horizontal arrows appearing in FIG. 18. This compression of hollow region 260 forces any air, or other fluid, contained therein in the direction of the vertical arrow. The forced fluid then travels through the second hollow region 262 and into the reservoir 216, where it then acts to force the control material 218 out the opening of the reservoir 216. It should be evident that any of the previously or subsequently described embodiments can be modified in a suitable manner, similar to that described above, to provide the same optional functionality.

As mentioned above, in the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 14-24 the first portion 212 in the second portion 214 are integrally formed or comprise a single-piece monolithic construction. However, the invention is not so limited and can be formed in multiple parts that are either permanently or releasably connected together.

It should be evident that the device 200 has a configuration such that it can be utilized in a manner similar to that described in connection with the previous embodiments.

The device 200 illustrated in FIGS. 19-20 has the same features as the device 200 described above. As illustrated in FIGS. 19-20, the device 200 according to this alternative embodiment possesses a gasket or seal 240 disposed about the body 224 and abutting the flange 222. The gasket 240 can be formed from any suitable material, natural or synthetic. For example, the gasket 240 can be formed from foam, rubber, cork material, or a composite. The gasket 240 can be a separate component that is fitted over the body. When formed as a separate component, the gasket can be held in place by friction or by a suitable adhesive. Alternatively, the gasket 240 can be co-molded with the device 200 so as to be unified therewith. The gasket 240 enhances a seal formed between the flanged 222 body 224 when the device 200 is used in conjunction and mated with an opening of a meter, as will be described in greater detail herein.

The device 200 illustrated in FIGS. 21-22 has the same features as the device 200 described above. As illustrated in FIGS. 21-22, the device 200 according to this alternative embodiment possesses an alternative closure 250 for the reservoir 216. The alternative closure 250 can have any suitable construction. According to the optional illustrated embodiment the closure 250 comprises a handle or hinge 252 connected to the flanged 222 body 224. The hinge 252 can be connected in any suitable fashion. According to the illustrated embodiment, the hinge 252 is integrally formed with the flanged 222 body 224, such as by molding. Alternatively, the hinge may be separately formed and secured in place by adhesive, heat welding, ultrasonic welding or other suitable technique. The hinge may also include a ring or collar that fits around the body 224 to secure the hinge 252 in place. The closure 250 may further include a cap portion 254 that mates with reservoir 216 opening forming a seal therewith to contain the control material 218 contained therein (FIG. 16). According to one optional embodiment, the cap portion 254 can be pressed down and lifted up by a user to form a re-sealable closure. Alternatively, the cap portion 254 can be secured in place to the flanged 222 body 224 by adhesive, heat welding, ultrasonic welding, or other suitable technique. The cap portion may comprise a frangible portion 256. The frangible portion 256 can be constructed so that it is pierceable by a lancet, needle, or similar modality.

The device 200′ illustrated in FIGS. 23-24 can share any combination or all of the same features as the device 200 of the previously described embodiments. The main distinction is that device 200′ has two second portions 214A, 214B, each with a flexible neck construction 230A, 230B optionally provided with a construction previously described herein (components of the second portion 214A are labeled as in previous figures with “A” added to each label, and the components of the second portion 214B are labeled as in previous figures with “B” added to each label). Each second portion 214A, 214B of the device 200′ defines a reservoir 216A, 216B which houses a control material 218A, 218B. The control material 218A, 218B can be essentially the same, thus providing the ability to perform at least two similar control tests with the same device 220′. As previously described, the control material may contain one or more target analyte(s). Alternatively, the control material 218A can differ from the control material 218B in one or more respects. For example, the first control material may contain a relatively lower concentration of a target analyte, while the second control material may contain a relatively higher concentration of the target analyte, thus providing a single device 200′ with the ability to conduct a control test for both low and high analyte concentration ranges to ensure even greater accuracy of a meter or other measuring device. According to a further option, the control materials 218A, 218B can be used to perform a control test for at least two different target analytes. Thus, the first control material 218A can have a known concentration of a first analyte, while the second control material 218B can have a known concentration of a second analyte. The reservoirs 216A, 216B can be sealed by a corresponding closure or seal 220A, 220B, as illustrated. Alternatively, the closure can be constructed as illustrated and described above in connection with FIGS. 21-22. The second portions 214A, 214B can have either the same type of closure or seal, or different types of closures/seals.

According to further optional embodiments of the present invention, any of the previously or subsequently described embodiments can be modified so as to include an alternative reservoir construction, an example of which being illustrated in the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 25-26. As illustrated therein, the second portion 214 of the device includes a modified reservoir 216′. The modified reservoir 216′ can be generally characterized as being in the form of a separable multi-piece construction. Such a construction can provide certain advantages. For example, the separable reservoir component containing the control material can be in the form of a cartridge which can be inserted into a reusable handle portion constituting the remainder of the device. Thus, once the control test has been conducted, the separable reservoir component containing control material can be removed and discarded appropriately. Such a construction may provide advantages in terms of cost and convenience, as well as significantly reducing waste due to the reusability of the handle portion. Further, the separable reservoir component containing the control material can be formed of a material which is different in nature than that of the handle portion into which it is inserted. For instance, the separable reservoir component can be formed from a relatively low moisture vapor transmission rate (LMVTR) material. Thus, the control material is kept in a more stable manner that would be possible using a higher moisture vapor transmission rate material. To the extent that the LMVTR material is more costly than a relatively higher moisture vapor transmission rate material, cost savings can be obtained through the above-mentioned modified reservoir construction.

The above noted concepts can be executed in any suitable manner. According to the nonlimiting illustrated embodiment, the modified reservoir portion 216′ comprises a lower member 270 defining a recess 272 therein. Received within a recess 272 is a separable reservoir component 274 containing the control material 218. The separable component may be closed by a frangible seal 220, as previously described, As noted above, this separable component 274 can be formed of any suitable material, such as a LMVTR plastic material. The separable component 274 can be retained within the recess 272 in any suitable fashion. Contemplated alternatives include adhesives, fasteners, and frictional retention. According to the illustrated embodiments, the separable component 274 is retained within the recess 272 by plurality of interacting frictional detents 276, 278.

Further aspects of the invention involves analyte testing/monitoring devices and methods including the devices (e.g., 100, 200, 200′) of the type described above in conjunction with an integrated analyte monitor or meter. The integrated monitor or meter optionally being capable of one or more of the following:

-   -   extracting the control material     -   transporting the control material to an analysis site within the         integrated monitor (e.g., as described in several of the         integrated meter documents incorporated herein by reference)     -   analyzing the control material to determine the concentration of         the analyte contained in the fluid     -   analyzing the control to determine whether the sample is a body         fluid or a control material     -   comparing the result of the control test against a control         calibration value, which may be read off a barcode, RFID, or         similar device and/or stored in a memory of the monitor or         meter, and     -   displaying the result of the control test as a         simple-to-interpret pass or fail result through simple         audible/visual signals.

To complete the described steps automatically the analyte monitor should also have the capability of gathering calibration information automatically, such as from an analyte concentration measuring and analysis mechanism contained with the device. If analysis site(s) is/are contained within a single strip or multi-test cartridge CR, as illustrated in FIG. 27, the calibration information for the analyte concentration measuring and analysis mechanism(s) could be delivered to the meter or monitor M via a bar code BR, RFID chip CH or other mechanism.

One advantage of the invention is automated detection and marking of a control test to distinguish that test from, for example, a test involving a sample of body fluid. This can be accomplished by several methods; one method of identifying a control test is described as follows. The control material can be designed such that it reacts with the analysis site in a manner distinguishable from the reaction with a bodily fluid. For example, the viscosity of the control material can be so different, either lower or higher than the tested body fluid, that the rate of reaction or sample delivery can be used to distinguish control material from body fluid. Specifically, glucose monitors typically have stated hematocrit ranges that are acceptable for use with the device. As hematocrit increases the viscosity of blood also increases. The analysis site and method could be designed in such a manner that the rate of reaction is inversely related to hematocrit (higher hematocrit=slower reaction). This has been described, for example, in US 2006/0281187, the entire contents of which is incorporated herein by reference. To accomplish this, the control material used within the analysis site could be contained in a porous material. The size of the pores in the material can be used to control the rate of reaction. The control fluid can be designed such that its viscosity is lower than the equivalent viscosity of the lowest allowable hematocrit level. Therefore as the analysis is completed within the integrated monitor the rate of reaction can be used to identify control material tests.

Another method of identifying a control sample versus a body fluid sample involves adding identifying markers to the control material. For example, control material could be identified by optical detection by adding color within the detection wavelength such that a color change of an order of magnitude higher than physiologically possible given the kinetics of the assay occurs nearly instantaneously. The degree of color added via a dye or other colored means is enough to detect via this method, but not so much as to reduce the dynamic detection range of the system so that the proper level of analyte detection in the control material can correctly indicate system analyte recovery status as “Pass” or “Fail” through clear audible and/or visual signals. Another similar option that may be implemented is to provide the control material with a chemical marker that initially reacts with the analysis site to produce an initial spike in color indicating to the meter the presence of control solution. The initial color spike can be designed to quickly disappear. Subsequently, the analysis site reacts with the analyte(s) in a manner that can be read and interpreted to determine the concentration thereof.

Other similar methods of observing the time rate of change of the analysis site (reagent) are also comprehended, i.e., very slow reaction, or reactions proceeding along known value vs. time plots, etc.

According to further alternative embodiments, the automated determination of a control solution test can be accomplished using algorithms executed by the electronic components within a monitor or meter.

A method performed according to the principles of one embodiment of the present invention includes one or more of the steps in FIGS. 27 and 28A-28D:\

Step 1: Provide calibration information to the monitor or device (e.g., FIG. 27 as described above).

Step 2: Use control material applicator (100, 200, 200′) to deliver a dose of control material to monitor or device (M) (FIG. 28A). Note: The integrated monitor can optionally detect the presence of a “finger,” in this case the control wand (100, 200. 200′), and automatically lances the closure (20, 120, 220, 256) and transports the control material (18, 118, 218) (e.g., FIG. 4).

Step 3: Integrated monitor analyzes the control material and determines that sample is a control test as indicated by any suitable symbol, such as the “check-mark” symbol on LCD (FIG. 28B). Alternatively, the monitor may provide an audible signal in place of, or in addition to, the symbol.

Step 4a: Control material is analyzed and its analyte concentration value is displayed (e.g., 100 mg/dL) and compared against stored calibration values. In this example, the value is within the expected range and device displays any suitable symbol, such as the “check” indicating “pass” (FIG. 28C). Alternatively, the monitor may provide an audible signal in place of, or in addition to, the symbol.

Step 4b: Control material is analyzed, the measured analyte concentration displayed and found to be outside of the expected range. In this case, the monitor indicates a failed test by displaying any suitable symbol, such as crossed-out check mark. Alternatively, the monitor may provide an audible signal in place of, or in addition to, the symbol. Note the “i” symbol indicates that user should look at manual to see how to address the failed test (FIG. 28D).

An alternative method performed according to a further optional embodiment is illustrated in FIGS. 27 and 29A-29D, and is described as follows.

Step 1: Provide calibration information to the monitor or device (e.g., FIG. 27 as described above).

Step 2: Use control material applicator (100, 200, 200′) to deliver a dose of control material (18, 118, 218) to monitor or device (M) (FIG. 29A). Note: The integrated monitor can optionally detect the presence of a “finger,” in this case the control wand (100, 200, 200′), and automatically lances the closure (20, 120, 220, 256) and transports the control material (e.g., FIG. 4). The monitor M can optionally signal the user when the applicator can be removed from the opening.

Step 3: Integrated monitor analyzes the control material and determines that sample is a control test as indicated by any suitable symbol, such as the “check-mark” symbol on LCD (e.g., FIG. 29B). Alternatively, the monitor may provide an audible signal in place of, or in addition to, the symbol.

Step 4a: Control material is analyzed and its analyte concentration value is compared against stored calibration values. In this example, the value is within the expected range and device displays any suitable symbol, such as the “check” and a “P” indicating “pass” (FIG. 29C). Alternatively, the monitor may provide an audible signal in place of, or in addition to, the symbol. Additional and/or alternative visual and audible signals are contemplated. For example, the meter M can play a recorded spoken “pass” message. Note that unlike the previous embodiment, the concentration of analyte measured by the device is not displayed. It has been found that some users can become confused by the display of a concentration value and mistakenly assume it is a reading of the concentration of analyte in a sample of the user's body fluid, and engage in treatment (e.g., insulin dosage) based on this misunderstanding of the concentration value displayed by the meter M. This embodiment avoids such opportunity for misinterpretation.

Step 4b: Control material is analyzed, the measured analyte concentration value is compared by the meter M against stored control or calibration values and found to be outside of the expected range. In this case the monitor displays a fail test. Any suitable symbol, such as the symbol indicated by the crossed check mark and “F,” indicative of a failed control test. Additional and/or alternative visual and audible signals are contemplated. For example, the meter M can play a recorded spoken “fail” message. Note the “i” symbol indicates that user should look at manual to see how to address the failed test (FIG. 29D).

It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to use of the devices (100, 200, 200′) described herein with a particular type of meter or device. The present invention contemplates devices and methods that do not rely upon an integrated type meter or monitor. For example, many commercially available blood glucose monitoring systems include a lancing device, test strips and meter, one or more of which are separate components of the system. An arrangement and a control testing method performed according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 30A-30B. As illustrated therein, a device of the type described herein (100, 200, 200′) contains a control material C. The control material C can have any suitable form or composition as previously described herein (18, 118, 218). The control material C is accessed by any suitable measure, such as by using a separate lancing device L that is commonly part of non-integrated blood glucose monitoring systems to pierce the closure or seal of the reservoir containing the control material C (FIG. 30A). A test strip S used for analyzing the concentration of a target analyte in a sample of body fluid by know techniques is inserted into a non-integrated meter M2. Using the device (100, 200, 200′) the control material C is applied to a test strip S in a manner similar to how the user would introduce a sample of body fluid, such as blood obtained from a finger prick. The control material is then analyzed by the strip S and meter M2 in any suitable manner in order to verify whether or not the measured concentration of analyte in the control material C is within a tolerable expected range, and the results presented to the user, This can be done in any suitable manner, such as described herein in connection with previous embodiments.

According to one optional modification of the above described embodiment of FIGS. 30A-30B, instead of using the device (100, 200, 200′) to apply the control material C directly to the test strip S, the control may be applied directly to the surface of a finger. The test strips is then brought into communication with the control material C on the finger, and is transported therein for analysis. This procedure more closely mimics a finger prick test using such non-integrated meters, and thus may be easier for the user to practice due to the familiarity of steps.

Numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, constituents, reaction conditions, and so forth used in this specification are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about”. Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth, the broad scope of the subject matter presented herein are approximations, the numerical values set forth are indicated as precisely as possible. Any numerical value, however, may inherently contain certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective measurement techniques. None of the elements recited in the appended claims should be interpreted as invoking 35 U.S.C. §112, ¶6, unless the term “means” is explicitly used.

Although the present invention has been described in connection with preferred embodiments thereof, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that additions, deletions, modifications, and substitutions not specifically described may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. 

We claim:
 1. A device comprising: a first portion configured to be grasped by a hand of a user; and a second portion comprising: a reservoir containing a first control material, wherein the control material comprises a target analyte of a known or a predetermined concentration; and a flexible neck configured to permit relative movement between the first portion and the reservoir, wherein the flexible neck comprises a first narrow neck region, a second narrow neck region, and an enlarged neck region between the first and second narrow neck regions.
 2. The device of claim 1, further comprising a frangible seal which contains the control material within the reservoir, and shields the control material from exposure to the environment.
 3. The device of claim 1, wherein the control material comprises a control liquid or solution.
 4. The device of claim 3, wherein the control material comprises an absorbent material upon which the control liquid or solution is absorbed.
 5. The device of claim 1, wherein the first portion is in the form of a flattened shape.
 6. The device of claim 5, wherein the first portion has a cross-section which is relatively thin at its middle, and relatively wider at its ends.
 7. The device of claim 6, further comprising a slippage reducing feature.
 8. The device of claim 7, wherein the slippage reducing feature comprises one or more ribs disposed on the first portion.
 9. The device of claim 1, wherein the first portion and the second portion are formed as separate components which are joined together.
 10. The device of claim 1, wherein the first and second portions are integrally formed.
 11. The device of claim 10, wherein the first and second portions are part of a one-piece monolithic structure.
 12. The device of claim 2, wherein the frangible seal comprises a pierceable foil.
 13. The device of claim 2, wherein the frangible seal comprises a hinge and a cap portion configured to mate with and seal the reservoir.
 14. The device of claim 1, further comprising a third portion defining a reservoir containing a second control material.
 15. The device of claim 14, wherein the first and second control materials are substantially the same.
 16. The device of claim 14, wherein the first and second control materials are different.
 17. The device of claim 1, wherein the control material further comprises at least one marker indicative of the presence of the control material.
 18. The device of claim 17, wherein the marker is composed to produce a color change possessing a degree of magnitude such that it is indicative of the presence of the control material.
 19. The device of claim 18, wherein the marker comprises a dye.
 20. The device of claim 17, wherein the marker is composed to produce a temporary color change indicative of the presence of the control material. 